Kahn (Robert Lewis) Hall

Date

2010-present

Location

169 North Professor Street

Architects/Collaborators

Newman Architects, New Haven (architects)
Panzica Construction, Cleveland (contractors)

Style

Postmodern

History

Robert Lewis Kahn Hall was dedicated September 25, 2010. It is a 52,000 square foot, 150-bed residence hall, with three floors plus basement. Kahn Hall is part of the First Year Residential Experience Cluster and is focused on sustainable living. The U.S. Green Building Council has certified Kahn Hall with its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver rating, signifying that the hall has met certain criteria such as water efficiency and indoor environmental quality. Kahn Hall combines both sophisticated and simple green features -- including an interlock system that automatically shuts off heat and air conditioning when windows are opened; high-efficiency washers and dryers; clotheslines in the laundry room; and bins for recycling and composting. First-year students living in Kahn Hall apply to live in the space and have pledged to make sustainability part of their everyday life by trying to conserve water and energy, reduce waste, avoid bringing cars to campus, and minimize their negative impact on the environment. In each wing of the building, students can monitor their energy and water use in real time. With strong communities and a variety of recreational spaces, including sound reduced practice rooms and a small workout facility, Kahn is an exciting place for students to explore during their first year at Oberlin College.

Sources

Oberlin College Archives, College General Records, Buildings and Dedications.

Robert Lewis Kahn Hall, Oberlin College Resed Housing website, accessed May 27, 2015.